CAO of DSSAB announces retirement

After 35 years working to bring social services to people in the District of Thunder Bay, Mary Lucas announced her retirement.

Lucas is the long-time chief administrative officer of the Thunder Bay District Social Services Board, and oversaw many changes in welfare and social housing over her career.

Lucas began her career with the City of Thunder Bay in 1975 as a community development officer. Over the years she worked as a social worker and then the manager of the Ontario Works division. Lucas was instrumental in guiding the establishment of the Thunder Bay DSSAB in the late ‘90s, which saw the amalgamation of 16 municipalities into one agency.

While the move was challenging, Lucas said it proved to be beneficial because all municipalities now see the same level of service

Lucas added that one of the biggest challenges the $81-million dollar agency will have in the future is costs associated with social housing.

A firm will soon be tasked with the search for a new CAO. Lucas' last day will come before the end of October.

Board members say t hey hope to have someone in place by then.